White Pass Scenic Byway
Take a leisurely drive along the White Pass Scenic Byway (Highway 12) from Mary's Corner (east on Interstate 5) to Nachez. See the fertile river valley, Mayfield, Riffe and Rimrock lakes. The glacier fed Cowlitz River. Mayfield Dam. DeGoedes tulip fields. Hatcheries. Visit the towns of Mossyrock, Morton, Randle, Packwood and Nachez. Watch as the valley becomes the foothills of Mt. Rainier and the foothills, the mountain. Find the scenic overlooks for Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier. Observe the changes in crossing over the pass from the wet side to the dry side -- especially when the leaves are showing their fall colors. See the incredible formations of columnar basalt. Stop and picnic, bird watch, fish, hike or shop. This lovely stretch of highway is a destination onto itself with much to explore and see.